Why You Need a Moving Essentials Box for Your Move in Baltimore

When moving into a new home, it’s easy to get wrapped up in coordinating all the packing and transportation details. Starving Students believes that one of the most critical steps for an easy move is preparing a moving essentials box—also known as an open-first box. This special box will contain the essential items you’ll need for the first couple of days in your new home, ensuring comfort, convenience, and organization while you unpack.

Having an essentials box can keep you from digging through moving boxes looking for basic necessities like chargers, clean clothes, kitchen items, and toiletries. Whether you’re moving with kids, pets, or elderly family members, tailoring your essentials box can make settling in much easier.

What is a Moving Essentials Box?

A moving essentials box is a set of boxes or bags containing the most important items you’ll need immediately after arriving at your new home. Instead of opening every box as soon as you arrive, you’ll have your essential belongings ready to grab.

You can set up your essentials box for each household member or for specific uses, depending on your household’s needs. The size and number of boxes will vary depending on the scale of your move, but the goal is to keep things neat and stress-free.

What to Pack in Your Moving Essentials Box

Personal Items

Your essentials box should include personal care items that you use daily. This will ensure that even if everything else is still packed, you have easy access to your necessities.

• Prescription medications
• Glasses or contact lenses with solution
• A few changes of clothes
• Phone and laptop chargers
• Important documents (passports, birth certificates, IDs, leases, medical records)
• Wallet, keys, and checkbook
• Work materials (if you need to resume work immediately)

Day-One Home Essentials

To keep your first day and night comfortable, include everyday items that you use regularly.

• Toilet paper and paper towels
• Hand soap, dish soap, and cleaning wipes
• Garbage bags
• Scissors or a box cutter
• Flashlights and batteries
• Emergency cash
• Multi-tool or small tool kit (hammer, screwdriver, pliers)

Bedroom Essentials

After a long moving day, you’ll want a comfortable night’s sleep. Having these items ready will make your first night smooth.

• Pillows, blankets, and sheets
• Pajamas and an extra set of clothes
• Curtains (if your new home doesn’t have blinds or drapes)
• Alarm clock or nightlight

Bathroom Essentials

No one wants to start their first morning in a new home without essential toiletries. Make sure to include:

• Toilet paper
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Hairbrush or comb
• Towels and washcloths
• Shower curtain (if needed)

Kitchen Essentials

Unpacking the kitchen can take a while, but you’ll still need some kitchen necessities to eat and drink during the first few days.

• Disposable plates, cups, and utensils
• Coffee maker or kettle with coffee and tea supplies
• Non-perishable snacks and bottled water
• Can opener
• Small pot or pan for simple meals
• Dish sponge and dish soap
• Pet food and bowls (if applicable)

Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Surprises can happen during a move. Have these essentials ready just in case:

• First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, allergy medication)
• Emergency contact list (local emergency numbers, doctor, vet, close family members)
• Fire extinguisher
• Power strip and extra batteries

Specialty Moving Essentials for Families, Pets, and Seniors

Every move will have unique needs, and having what each person or pet needs makes move-in easier.

For Families with Kids

If you’re moving with children, helping kids feel secure is key.

• Favorite toys, books, and stuffed animals
• Snacks and juice boxes
• Extra diapers, wipes, and baby formula
• Nightlight and extra set of pajamas

For Seniors

If an elderly family member is moving with you, don’t forget to pack:

• Personal medications and medical supplies
• Mobility aids like a walker or cane
• Warm blankets or clothing for comfort

For Pets

Moving can be stressful for pets, so make sure their comfort items are included.

• Food and treats
• Water bowls
• Leash and pet waste bags
• A comfortable blanket or bed

Tips for Preparing Your Essentials Box

To make sure your essentials box serves its purpose, keep these strategies in mind:

1. Make Sure Essentials Box is Clearly Labeled
   Use clear labels for quick identification, like "Open-First” or “Essentials Box." When loading your moving truck, make sure it’s packed last and unloaded first.
2. Separate Essentials into Several Boxes
   For large families, split items up by category or person into multiple boxes rather than cramming everything into one oversized box.
3. Limit to Absolute Necessities
   Don’t overpack—keep it limited to items you’ll absolutely need within the first 24-48 hours.
4. Protect Key Documents During the Move
   Bring sensitive documents with you instead of putting them in the truck.
5. Unpack Your Home at Your Own Pace
   Having your essentials box ready means you can settle in slowly with less stress, allowing you to get comfortable as you go.

Next Steps: Getting Help with Packing and Moving in Baltimore